From the iconic “bean” to its culture and food, there are so many things to do and explore in Chicago. And with such a rich history and being the birthplace of many innovations, there is always something new to learn about the Windy City. So whether you’re a long-time resident or a recent transplant, here are 12 fun facts about Chicago you may not know.
The world’s first skyscraper was built in Chicago in the 1880s
Built in 1885, the Home Insurance building made its debut as the world’s first modern skyscraper. The building was ten stories tall and influenced the infrastructure and architecture of major U.S. cities that we see today.
“One of the nicest skyscrapers left is The Rookery at 209 S. LaSalle St. It was designed by noted architects Daniel Burnham and John Wellborn Root. In 1905, the lobby was beautifully remodeled by Frank Lloyd Wright. The building’s entrance was used as the police station in The Untouchables and the toy store in Home Alone 2.” –See It ALL Chicago Tours
The Chicago River flows backwards
The 156 mile-long river runs backwards through the city into the Mississippi River rather than north into Lake Michigan. The decision to redirect the river was made to protect Chicago’s primary source of drinking water from pollutants and the possibility of water-borne illnesses.
The Ledge at Skydeck Chicago is 1,353 feet up
“This glass bottom balcony is located 103 stories up in the iconic Willis Tower. On a clear day, you can enjoy views up to 50 miles and into four states – Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.” –Skydeck Chicago
Each year, the river is dyed green for St. Patrick’s Day
Chicago has become well known across the U.S. for its grand celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. The city hosts a range of festivities all weekend long, such as the St. Patrick’s Day parade in downtown, but there are also two other parades that take place over the holiday weekend. The city began dyeing the river in 1962, and it has become a long-standing and famous tradition.
It is estimated Michigan’s Lakefront sees 100,000 users a day
“My favorite part of Chicago is Lake Michigan. From bike rides along the lakefront path, to the skyline views and beaches along the shore, to the feeling of jumping in its cold blue water on a hot summer day, I love everything about it. It’s estimated that the Lakefront Trail sees 100,000 users a day on peak summer weekends, so I’m not alone in my love for the lakefront!” –Marissa Kelly Photography
Route 66 begins in Chicago
The infamous Route 66 runs from downtown Chicago to Santa Monica, CA. It holds a special place in American history as it was one of the “best and most scenic routes” and symbolized the evolution of infrastructure from dirt roads to highways.
Chicago is home to 23 Michelin starred restaurants
“What I love about Chicago is its surprisingly outstanding restaurant scene. Sure, Chicago might be famous for its street-style hotdogs and deep- dish pizza, but this city has so much more to offer. There is enough variety to satisfy any food lover from casual dining, to luxury experiences and A-list chefs. What you may not know is that Chicago is home to 23 Michelin starred restaurants! Some of my favorite spots include restaurants from the BOKA group and I love all Stephanie Izzard restaurants.” –Edyta Grazman
There are approximately 70 museums in Chicago
“Chicago is home to an abundance of museums, including some of the largest museums in the world. The Museum of Science and Industry and the Field Museum are both great for a family-friendly weekend in Chicago and will keep you entertained and learning for hours on end.” -Amanda Emmerling
There is green space galore spread all throughout the city
You’ll find over 600 parks throughout Chicago with more than 8,800 acres of green space for walking, riding bikes, and other outdoor recreation.
Lincoln Park is a must see neighborhood in Chicago
“Lincoln Park is iconic for engagement sessions since you get a mix of everything including the honeycomb, North Ave beach, and the Chicago history museum. Think of nature mixed with urban!” –Aspen Avenue
The 1937 high school Prep Bowl attracted over 120,000 fans
“The record for the highest attendance ever for a high school football game was the 1937 Prep Bowl between Austin and Leo. The game was played Saturday, November 27, 1937 and the Austin Tigers won the game 26-0. At that time this game was known as the Mayor’s Charity Game. The tickets were sold at all of the firehouses, the firemen sold the tickets with great enthusiasm and all of the proceeds went to charity.” –Wm Meyers Movers
Chicago is one of the most picturesque cities on Earth
“As a photographer, I love the wide variety of spaces. From architectural marvels to gorgeous green spaces. You can really get lost in all the history. A really fun thing to do is go to the Tribune building, and check out the “world artifacts” on the outside walls”. –Victoria Sprung Photography
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